Jennifer Faye Smith - The World Race 2007

Hello My Faithful Friends!

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Sooooo.............

It's been a while! Hello my faithful friends. How about you say, "We get this thing going again!"

My son has graduated high school and is about to step into a new season of life called college. The Lord blessed us with the most amazing gift - FULL RIDE! Yep, all four years of his college is completely paid for plus extra financial aide to keep him going. WOW GOD! He makes more than me, hahahaha!

This brings me to ME. I, too, am stepping into a new season of life. After becoming quite used to being a fulltime mom, meeting all the needs of a wonderful son, I am once again going to be doing this ride single-handed.

I know I have lots of great friends and an even greater God who will never leave me nor forsake me, but just the same, I live alone. I can do pretty much what I want now with no guilt of leaving anyone behind.

Pretty much what I want... hmmm... novel concept if you are one who completely desires to do only what God wants. Which is WHAT!?

I have several options, but what is my heart? What drives my passions? What lights my fire? What glorifies God and exalts the name of Jesus Christ?

I have a burning desire to make disciples and send them out! I have a call to speak and be heard. I have a genuine drive to help people get set free from bondage.

I love to worship the King of kings and the Lord of lords. I love to seek and soak in the presence of God. I love to sing praises to His name and commune with Him.

So, where do we go from here? To the Throne Room!

Please join me in prayer for the next season of my life, and if you are entering a new season, please let me know!! I would love to join with you, too.

I need you partners. I need you friends!

With love always,

Jennifer

1 Down, 2 To Go!

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

1 Down, 2 To Go! Weeks that is...

Can you believe it has been a week already!? I'm telling you though, there really is nothing "fun" about fasting! I am glad it is not a work but simply a joy to honor God, who lives in us.

Fasting without Prayer = Diet!

The devil has no victory, though he has put his best foot forth in trying. THREE times he has blasted me with lies that could have been very persuasive, but I know that I know God has called me to this fast!

1. A close friend called me out on the purpose of my fast to which I am grateful, because that helped put into perspective just how much I want to honor my body as the Temple of the Living God my KING!

2. Someone very close to me and FULL of wisdom (usually) tried their best in convincing me that we do not have to fast, and if we can "drink" an apple then why can't we eat it. Wow, that was really convincing, but the Holy Spirit is more!

3. The sermon on Sunday was based upon God's love for us and that our works cannot get us any closer to that fact. Boy oh boy did the enemy have a field day with that one. "you're only doing this for brownie points with God... etc..." You know the lies. Well, I silenced him and praised God for breakthrough!

"The Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen and protect you from the evil one." (2 Thessalonians 3:3)

The Bible does not say a whole lot about fasting, but it does speak a considerable amount on faithfulness. Yes, I would loooove to sink my teeth into a sandwich, or a plate of spaghetti, or some BEEF!, but I would much rather honor Him who is faithful to me! And again, I know that I know, God has called me to this fast.

I really am having SUCH a good time.

The funny thing is I'm not hungry. JESUS is my Bread and my Water! He is my portion. I am satisfied. That is why the enemy is trying to attack my mind. Stupid Devil! I have the mind of Christ!

How are you? Please share with me!! I want to know how to pray for you!

Blessings and Prayers,
Jennifer

Today Is The Day!

Mon, 5 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Good morning my friends! I trust in the Lord that your holidays were all wonderful, blessed, and full of Jesus!

This blog is a follow up to the blog, "An Invitation" that I wrote a while back. Today is the day we start our 21 day fast! If you have already begun... wonderful!

I am writing you to encourage you with strength and vision, but first, I want to thank you sooo much for joining in with me on this fast! You have been so faithful to come alongside me spiritually. It is a strand that cannot be broken!

Whatever fast you are doing (Daniel, juice, other), I encourage you in the Lord to be strong and faithful. You will be so blessed by doing so!

For accountability, I am doing a complete liquid fast. I will be drinking coffee :-), juices and broths. 21 days is a long time, but I know the Lord has called me to do this; therefore, He WILL give me the strength to carry through! I am believing God for breakthrough in some physical areas and also for my future for next year. I need to know where to go and what to do when my son goes to college. I have a divided heart, and that is not of God!

My son, Christopher, is also fasting. He will be doing the Daniel fast. First, I have to say that I am so so sooo proud of him! It is his first fast ever, and he is super excited. He sees and understands the benefits spiritually, mmm such growth! Praise God! Second, he has some concerns, as do I, for college and scholarships... we are believing together for a miracle! God is faithful! I am excited at the thought of God showing Christopher His love for him too!

We have a plan, but God has a Master plan!

In saying all that, how can I be praying for you? What are some of your goals? What fast are you doing so I can hold you accountable too?

I am asking you to believe that God can do the unimaginable, the unthinkable, the unbelievable! He is a mighty God! He is THE mighty God! Let's dream God-sized dreams together. I will believe with you too. There is enough room in my theology to do that. Is there enough in yours?

I believe in you!
Jennifer

"I will look on you with favor and make you fruitful and increase your numbers, and I will keep my covenant with you. You will still be eating last year's harvest when you will have to move it out to make room for the new. I will put my dwelling place among you." Levitcus 26:9-11

Merry Christmas Orphans!

Sat, 6 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Seth Barnes, founder of Adventures in Missions (AIM), wrote a blog that I think is of interest to everyone! Soooo... I "borrowed" it to post here on my blog.

MERRY CHRISTMAS ORPHANS!

Seth Writes:

I love what some Christians are doing to minister to widows and orphans through imaginative ways. Take Product(RED), for example: Bono saw the consumerist tendencies of Americans and, instead of beating them over the head with statistics, utilized corporate revenue to bring life-saving drugs to AIDS victims in Africa.

Or, take my friend Tom Davis, who helped start Saint's Coffee, which promises that for every pound of coffee you buy, an orphan is fed for an entire month. I see more and more of these types of businesses springing up these days. It is a creative way for the ministry-minded and business-minded to get together and collaborate in ways that advance the kingdom of God. For more on Saint's Coffee, check out the following:

It's that time of year when our minds turn toward giving gifts to those we love.

This year Saint's Coffee is offering several special coffee blends and Christmas packages for the holiday season.

This reasonably priced, fair trade and organic coffee is among the top 3 percent of all coffee in the world. And when you drink it... you are helping more than yourself.

Saints Coffee has faithfully donated 1/3 of it's net profits back to Children's HopeChest to help feed children in Swaziland.

Order a bag or box today for the coffee lovers in your life!

An Invitation

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Hello My Dear Friends!

I just love all of you sooo much! I am grateful for each and every one of you. I really REALLY am! Ah man, when I think about where my life would be today without you, I shake my head, and then I give God some praise!

I am writing this blog as an invitation! I am inviting you to the awesome privilege of a fast. As the New Year kicks in, I want to souly turn my focus toward Jesus Christ! I will be enjoying a 21 day fast, and would like to know if you will join me.

I am writing you long in advance so you can pray and see what way you would like to do and begin to prepare for your fast. The fast will begin on Monday, January 5^th and will go for 21 days! (I will be on vacation with my sister till then.)

Why am I inviting you? Because Iron sharpens Iron! I want to be an earth shaker! The kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force. The time is NOW! That's me That's you That's US! I believe in you!

This fast is primarily to honor God and seek His face and let my heart connect with His in a profound way. Oh how I just want to draw more and more near to Him.

His voice will be heard.
His name will be exalted.
His will, will be done.

Is this true for you?
"I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." Galatians 2:20

Watch the whole thing! The last 20 seconds will change your life! Oh death where is your victory; where is your sting?

I'm Still Alive!

Sun, 23 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

HA! I'm still alive, and I'm still around!

It has been a while since I have written. Sorry! This blog will not be that long.

I just wanted to say that I love you all and HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

Also, Seth Barnes has posted an awesome blog for Christmas shopping! Please visit http://www.sethbarnes.com/?filename=shop-for-christmas-help-orphans to do your holiday shopping!!!

18 Years Ago Today

Mon, 8 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Today is Christopher's 18^th Birthday! Oh Boy!

I got up and cooked him bacon and eggs for breakfast, and tonight I will cook him the meal of his choice and bake him a chocolate/chocolate cake!

(Please pray for me, as this is totally against my fast. Would it be right to share a piece of cake with my son on his birthday this one time, or do I resist like crazy?)

Man, I can't believe he is 18!

When I look back in retrospect, I can honestly say, "Where has the time gone?" He is a big boy. Hahahaha... I told him this morning that in the legal sense and in society's eyes, he is considered a man, BUT he will always be my baby! He liked both of those statements.

I started weeping at the table this morning. I could not control it. He was tickled at me. He even teased me. He knows that I love him so much! I am such a sucker for him, and I don't care!

Oh God thank you!!! I am so blessed to have such a wonderful son!

In your time today, when you read this short blog, PLEASE say a special prayer for Chris. He has such a call on his life. I see such fruit. It is a mother's desire to see her son walk out that call with passion!

A Sensitive Blog

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Okay.... I have been on a bad benge with eating! I really really need your help!!!

This is such a sensitive subject. It is not just every day a woman will put out there, especially on the internet, her struggles with food and weight!

For the month of September (actually starting on the 2nd), I am going to fast from ALL sweets, cereals, beef & unclean meats, sodas, ice-cream, and drive-thrus, as well as, fasting food completely once a week.

I am not dieting! I hate dieting! I have been on a diet for 5 years... I am over it!!! I just want to eat healthy. Whatever that looks like.... I have always been a junk-food-junkie...

I have been studying how to truly eat well and honor my body as a temple. I will be eating fresh/steamed veggies, fruits, nuts and fish. I have been on a good regimen for vitamins and nutrients, too. The enemy has been coming at me full force, but greater is HE who is in me.

So, I am BEGGING you to please re-visit this blog during and at the end of September, and ask me how I'm doing with this challenge. Actually, I invite you to join me. There is power in accountability!

I have done this before... month long fasts from food items, but never so intense. The fact is, I struggle big-time with eating. I don't normally tell people when I am fasting, but as the Scriptures say, "The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak..." Boy oh boy is this true!

Even if you don't join me, I am asking you from the bottom of my heart to please pray for me

I love you!

On This Day...

Sun, 10 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

On this day, my son Christoper, moved in with me. YES! He moved in with me.

A couple of weeks ago, he said to me, "Mom, I want to tell you something, but I don't want you to get your hopes up." That's enough to make any parent nervous. He said, "I am thinking about moving in with you." My spirit leaped inside of me! I know how Elizabeth felt while pregnant with John the Baptist, when Mary showed up pregnant with Jesus!

Avoiding the "hopes up" syndrome, I told him whatever he wanted to do, I would support that decision.

Now two weeks later, he has officially moved in. His room is in order (well at least his stuff is in there... thrown).

It has been a long journey, and an even tougher one than any I have been through. I would never want to live it again. I have abandoned my son in the past, and there was fear, I'm sure, that I may do it again. However, over time, I have proven to my son that I am here for him. At first, all I wanted to do was "run" home, but God would not let me! OH HOW I AM GRATEFUL!

My son and I are closer than ever. We have an open door policy with our thoughts and our lives. As a result, he trusts me, and to God be the glory. It wasn't so long ago that I was not a trustworthy person.

TONIGHT, as we were moving in his stuff, I asked him what does he want on his walls (his room is black and white). He quickly said, "posters of Lindsay Lonahan and a couple more young hotties." I assured him that that was not going up... He laughed so loud and hard. It cracked me up too. It was great to know that he feels that comfortable with me to joke like that.

My son is quite the boy. HA! I guess they really never grow out of that.

We both know that this is going to stretch us to who knows what. My place is MUCH smaller than what he is used to, and I have lived completely alone for over six years!!! OH BOY! Also, financially it is going to be quite different too. God is my provider though!!!

Time is a healer! So is LOVE! I know that I know that Christopher knows that he knows, I LOVE HIM!!! Just like God, I will never leave him nor forsake him.

For all of those who have walked this journey with me, THANK YOU for praying with me, putting up with me, and more than anything, not letting me give up! I love you!!!

I would ask for continued love, prayers, and accountability. This journey is not over; it has really just begun!

Children are a gift from God! Thank you God for the gift of your Son and mine!

I Want It. Do You? Two

Sat, 26 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Hello again.

An edition to living out my dream:

On Friday, I was a speaker at a women's retreat where 300 women gathered to praise our Lord and get refreshed in Him. Though I was not the main speaker but a workshop speaker, there was still a great turnout of women; the room was packed!

The theme of the conference was "Victorious Women." But who knows that life gets in the way of feeling victorious sometimes.

As we began, I felt that a short song to the Lord would be appropriate. Amazing Grace was suitable for the occasion. See, I was giving my testimony. Giving my testimony has been the open door to many speaking engagements. I have done it so much, that I don't even "study" for it. After all, I did live it you know. I just go and rely on the Holy Spirit to guide me in what God wants to reveal.

The Lord has given me a spirit of creativity with it now, too. I don't just give my testimony. (You try talking the same talk for 6 yrs straight.) I get the audience engaged and participate. A revelation that the Lord gave me was not to just tell the testimony and the call on my life, but help others tap into the heart of Father and the call on their life... to grasp the dream in their heart and execute it... GO FOR IT! Oh it is sooo much fun!!!! I love seeing others get over the "only ifs" and confess the "I cans." I love to see others gain the surpassing knowledge of who they are in Christ!

As I closed my session, 30+ women responded to the altar call of writing down what was in their heart. With tears streaming down some faces, with the look of hope and excitement, it was qutie obvious that they had certainly tapped into a place they had not visited in a long time or perhaps did not even know existed.

We took the time to put some of our dreams (and hurts) on paper. Here are a few of the responses:

To be a teacher or nurse, a missionary or speaker: Even if I've failed, I can try again... I have failed. Sister, I want to be on fire for Him. I am oppressed and need freedom from the onslaught of the enemy that has me bound.
A ministry to homosexuals and the church.
This one broke my heart: What is my dream? Can't be sure that I know the truth. Oh... I'm only fooling myself. I have always dreamed of having a companion and children, but at 45, I have given up.
I want to finance many Christian institutions. (I wish I knew who this is!!!)
I want to write and produce music.
I want to write a book... the list goes on and on.

I am hugely encouraged by these notes. I brought the stack of them home to pray for them all. As I was going through them, my heart just melted. I know that I know the Lord wants to answer the desires of these ladies hearts! He is so very faithful! I would ask that you would lift up to our Lord these women too!

We then closed with an intimate time in the Lord, giving HIM the glory for a wonderful day! We clutched hands and exalted the name of Jesus in prayer, then we seized the moment with another closing song... "Aaaamen.... Aaaamen..... Aaamen, Amen, Amen!"

Oh what a time of freedom. Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom!

"Oh God, may we love You in all things and above all things. May we reach the joy which You have prepared for us in advance. All that is good comes from Your hand. It is your desire to see your children joyful and walking in freedom. Place in our hearts a desire to please You and fill our minds with thoughts of You. May we truly be victorious in our minds and in all we do! To you, our Lord be all the glory."

I Want It. Do You?

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

You ever feel like a piece of you is missing? I suppose we all do at times. Have you ever lost anything of significance? People lose things all the time, car keys, eye glasses, jewelry, even their kids. I remember one time I lost my son, Christopher, in the Oaks Mall. I was a very young mother and was panicking! Finally, after what seemed like an eternity (about 2 minutes), a lady asked me if I was looking for a young baby about 2 years old. UH YEAH #@^&*!

After raising that thought, let me ask you another question. What if that something that is lost --- is you? The Bible says that our sin separates us from our God. But what if we don't recognize that sin; how can we recognize the separation? We just meander around aimlessly at life believing the lies of the enemy that our life is, well, useless and this is the norm - nothing will ever change. We even live our lives vicariously through the adventures of others. Are you missing - out on life?

Complacency - the Bible calls it luke-warm, and God will spit us out of his mouth when we dig our rut to live there. It saddens my heart when I see and hear "Christians" living in this unwanted, unlovely place. You know the place, "only if if only"

I don't ever want to be there. How about you? Have you ever been there? Are you there now?

I have to tell you. I believe in the call that God has placed on my life! I get extremely excited when I think about the powerful things that He says I can do in His name.

As a minister of reconciliation, I am called to speaking largely at conferences, seeing countless lives coming to the cross and being transformed. Let me touch on that a minute. If you are a pew warmer, you are not a transformed life. You are just a saved soul, maybe! There is a difference.

Erwin McManus, author of the book "Chasing Daylight" speaks about taking a stand by living the dream that God has placed inside of our hearts. He said, "For so long, we as Christians have wanted to be known for what we do, but we should be known for what we stand for." This quote resonates within my heart.

I am not "chasing" a dream; I am "going after" my dream and would even dare to believe that very soon, I will be living out my dream.

I stand for redeeming the name "Christian." I am standing for God, the Bible and His commands.

The Lord has been faithful to open the doors I have prayed about for years. Now, it is up to me to be faithful to walk through them. As a woman who loves control, I don't like not knowing. I get anxious at times. I'm not a victim of the fear-of-the-unknown syndrome. I simply do it afraid.

I love living life on the edge. It balances my zeal somehow. The other day, I signed up randomly to go on a 12 mile canoe trip. Shew, I thought my arms were going to fall off, and I got sunburned too, but I would not have missed it for anything in the world, even not knowing anyone on the trip. I have also traveled to Thailand and Israel all by my little self. I love it! It helps looooving missions too. I love different cultures. I love widows and orphans. I love prostitutes. I love the forgotten. I want to go to the unreached, the people who have never heard in their ears, Jesus. I can not wait to just go and go and go.

I don't know why I mentioned that other than perhaps to tell you to get over your fears. God's hand is on your life. He truly wants you to not just "have" but "live" the abundant life, and sometimes (probably more often than not) that abundance means taking risk and living life on the edge! Step out of the boat, Peter. Be courageous, Joshua. HAVE FUN!

Last night, at a Perry Stone conference, I saw over 200 people get baptized in the Holy Spirit at one time! It was amazing, breathtaking even! I was in such awe at what God had just done right before my eyes. However, just think of the courage it took for them to step forward and ask God for this wonderful gift. Imagine the questions going on in their heads, "What will people think?" "Is this for real?" "Can I really receive this?" We've all grappled with such questions.

The answer was, is, and will always be Yes and Amen. Yes and Amen to all of your questions when you put God as the Headship of your life. Allow the Lord to rebuke fear and doubt and then get on with your predestined life. You know the one. God planned it from the foundations of the earth. The author of life and laughter.

Though things don't always appear to be "right," know that God sees the end from the beginning. Trust in Him with all of your heart and lean not on your own understanding, and HE WILL guide your steps into a life you could have never dreamt of on your own. He will mount you up on Eagle's wings. Oh if we could grasp just how deep, how wide, The best part is that He really wants to do that for you and for me.

NOW LIVE! I'm going to!

I leave you with this prayer from Ephesians 3:14-19, "For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom his whole familyin heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge-that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

BIG Picture Blog

Sun, 22 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Hello All! I just wanted to share some more pics with you. Some will have a brief explanation, and some will be just for fun...

I hope you can grasp the measure of the GREAT time I had. It was an experience I will never ever forget. Thank you Jesus for allowing me one of the best opportunities of my life!

Israeli Army. All kids have to go into the army for at least 2 years after graduation.

Nolan, Alan, and Peter.... I LOVE THESE GUYS!!!

Israeli Parking.... hahahaha... you see this everywhere! All the cars have scrapes and dents! NO JOKE!

Me in the exit of the lobby outside of the Upper Room

A sneak peak inside the Upper Room. There is no entry allowed, but I was able to zoom in through a crack in the door!!

Nolan and Me (Noran... we get this from a young Korean boy who could not pronounce his name correctly. Noran stuck with him throughout the entire trip. It was hilarious!!!)

Sitting on the wall of the place where Joshua conqered Lachish (Joshua 10:29-43)

Where David slew Goliath.... Awesome time!

The graves where they believe that the dead will rise first in Christ (which is true) but they believe the closer the quicker.

The Western Wall. I was blown away by the idol worship here!

Even Muslim boys shop...

3 young Muslim girls outside of a Mosk at the Temple Mount

Golgotha where Jesus was crucified. You could absolutely feel the Spirit here. It was breath taking to say the least! It is, however, very much a tourist hotspot now...

The tomb where Jesus was laid. We did not have time to go in b/c of the LONG line. I studied in Scripture to compare truth. This does fit the description out of John 19.

Zedekiah's Cave... this was sooo cooool!

This is one of my favorite pics.... 2 ships at sea on the Mediterranean

swimming... duh!

Playing dodge ball at the beach with one of the youth groups... man they are good!

Dan being invaded by the kids at the beach.

Sunset at the Mediterranean

Going into service... Dan, Me, Nolan, Amy, Alan, David

Flag of the Star of David

TEAM JOY!

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Israel was truly one of the best experiences that I have ever had in life. Really! Note I didn't say season; perhaps that is still yet to come from out of this team.

Team Joy was just that, joy. Though Israel was sooo aaaamazing, the community in our team is what made the trip. I don't mean to make this an "I" blog, but I truly felt that God put this group of people together for me. It was exactly what I needed.

When we met at the airport, the chemistry was already kicking in. By day three, we were best of friends. It was as if we had known one-another for years. The whole team, which was miraculous.

We did everything together as a team. If one went, we all went. If one did, we all did. It was not difficult, because we had such a unity. Very few times did we break into to smaller teams, and when we did, it just didn't seem complete.

When it was time to leave to come home, there were many tears. I truthfully did not want to leave. I fell in love with these people quickly! What's not to love: they love the Lord, they're servants, super funny, good listeners, love to worship, just as good looking as me.... I could go on.... hahahaha...

Any hoo.... I really could go on forever about this team; in fact, I will be writing a special blog for them as individuals. But until then, here are a few pics of TEAM JOY!

I love you Team Joy!!!! You have brought me incredible memories. MISS YOU! I will see you soon!!!

Though we have gone our seperate ways, time is all that seperates us. I really really did love serving with each and everyone of these peeps. They are incredible people!

The Palm Of His Hand!

Sat, 14 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

(This is not the homeless man I met, but this was taken while in Israel.)

The homeless guy, Who God has his name written in the palm of His hand!

We went downtown to Jerusalem to find and feed the homeless by giving them water and pitas. This was after the concert on the Mt of Olives, so we were all fired up from the amazing worship!

In Jerusalem, they have two laws about feeding the homeless. One is if you give them food or water, you cannot pray for them, and the other is you can pray for them as long as you don't give them anything to eat. So it's like a catch 22. What do you do? What really is the most important thing for a person? Food is a necessity to survive, and so is prayer. Surprisingly, it is not always prayer, which is crushing religion right in its face. hoorah!

After breaking into teams and walking all over Jerusalem, there was little to find. We weren't discouraged, because we had prayed over the streets, calling down Heaven. Sandwiches still in hand, Nolan and I took off together to see if the Lord would open a door. Faithful and True, He did.

Nolan had literally just spoken out of his mouth, "I feel the Holy Spirit here." About that time, I saw a homeless man on a bench. I pointed, and our feet were like magnets to this man. Our eyes connected; his was filled with hope and gratitude. We reached out to give him the sandwiches and water; he gladly accepted them.

Broken because we could not pray with him, both Nolan and I walked away in despair. We stopped at the top of the stairs leading out and prayed. We were in agreement.

Suddenly, the strongest desire to hold this man in my arms was more than I could bear! I turned and ran to him as Phillip did the Eunuch in Acts. I wrapped my arms around him, and he did me too. He clung to me in fact. It was emotional. I knew that Father wanted to lavish his love on him. He needed that hug; I'm convinced. But even more than that, I needed it too.

We left...

Two days later, we went back out to do the same thing, feed the homeless. I know what you are thinking already. Yes, I saw him again! Once again, I had the opportunity to run to this man, only now, this man has a name to me... Faber, which translates into Gabriel. It was angels unaware!

He smiled as big as a person could smile when he saw me; I reciprocated. As we tried to communicate, I could not take my eyes off of him. He was angelic to me. Suddenly, he started weeping then crying uncontrollably. He just laid his head in his hands and cried. I wrapped my arms around him and held on so tightly. I kept repeating the name of Yeshua over him. I did not care about their silly laws. I then began to pray in the Spirit. I was at a loss for words.

As I fellowshipped with him, I gave him a pen and asked him to write his name in the palm of my hand. Yes, my prayers were complete in that I asked Father to do the same for Faber.

Once again, we had to move on.... I was broken to leave him. I just wanted to hang out all day, but we had a task to do... I almost hated to leave, but I was hopeful for another encounter.

God loves the poor, and so do I.

It is just a fact, the poor we will always have among us, so let us marvel in the wonders of the presence of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ the Messiah! Be utterly amazed by Him. Let Zephaniah 3:17 come alive in your life: "He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with his love, He will rejoice over you with singing."

"Our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ."

Lost In His Presence

Sat, 14 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Sunset over the Mediterranean Sea. The Ships were key!

One of the greatest things to me is worshiping God. I mean, that is why were created after all, to worship God.

Yesterday morning, I was engaged in the most powerful, the most incredible worship on planet earth! Sometimes, the staff of where we are staying joins us (or rather, we join them) during this time. Weeelllll yesterday BLEW MY MIND! As the 25 or so of us gathered, heaven came down! A few of the Jewish people just took over the service, and there was a celebration. Yeshua was exalted high. There was Davidic dancing with freedom. Even peeps from our team participated, and some wished they had. The energy was exciting to say the least. Then... THEN... we sung the such a powerful song in Hebrew. The Holy Spirit fell in that room. It made me desire and even envision the Upper Room when the Holy Spirit fell. Prophecies were given, prayers were lifted, tears were streaming, and strongholds were breaking. The presence of God was tangible. We were on Holy ground. I, like all the others, did not want it to stop. I believe we could have gone for hours and even perhaps should have.

It is such a different experience being here in Israel and experiencing the culture. I have found the secret place of worship. Though I have visited this place before, the lingering here is what made the difference. I will be bringing "this" secret place back with me.

Here Ya Go!

Mon, 9 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

AMAZING AMAZING AMAZING! Here's a two dayer for reading here....

Meet my team! I love my team! We bonded immediately, and have become close quickly. I have not laughed this hard in a long long time! They are a great bunch of people. I will miss them when I leave! Perhaps I will make a road trip to GA and OR...

Alan, Landon, Nolan (my fave), Peter, David, Joe, Jack, Mike, Z,
Me, Amy, Dan, Tammy, Cathy... Team Joy!

This is the sunset every night over the Mediterranean. I am standing on top of the hostel where we are staying while here. We debrief with this view everynight.

Morning of 7th: After beginning my day meditating on Acts 15:8 and Isaiah 55:11, the Lord spoke 2 specific things to me. 1. He is returning the joy of my salvation and 2. Just one word, Confident. I tucked it away in my heart's memory bank and began the days "chores." We, the team, was able to step up to the plate and pray for and serve the people at our hostel. I first met Bae-Jinhwan, a young adult who is from Korea. We talked for a little bit, just getting to know one-another. When asked what I could pray for him for, he responded with a contrite heart, "Pray for vision from God. I am seeking what He wants for me." It was a beautiful moment. Then Jack and I were able to pray with a Jew trying to renew his visa in this country but having difficulties with the government officials. I really felt the Lord say, "yes and amen." After lunch our leaders spoke some words over us received from the Lord they received from the Lord. The words were penetrating and dead on it! God spoke directly to my heart through them. The most specific thing was "confident" was the exact word said. HA! We then broke into 2 teams and proceeded the day with ATL prayer walk around the city. We approached what was truthfully the only shop open and was led inside. The owner, Soli, actually closed the shop to receive prayer with no distractions. Umm umm umm good!

The end of the evening came with the most incredible experience. We had service downstairs. Dozens of Messianic Jews and foreigners gathered to worship the same God... our God, Yeshua. I cried, then I cried again! I could not stop crying. It was so moving. I was in awe at how the natives have such a passion for their Land. Hmmm... only if??? The most special part to me was, our leader, a Rabbi, who he himself is Jewish and has the biggest heart for the Land. He actually brought the word forth to the congregation. To watch him pour out his heart to his own was the biggest blessing! Yep, you guessed it; I cried! Not only did he pour his heart out, but the assembly received it with zeal! It was a tremendous word, encouraging them... us to continue forward in passion, hope, and trust. We then ended the service with communion and dancing. It was breathtaking to say the least! God's presence WAS experienced.

Next Day:

We have gone all over the place... literally. We walk a lot; I believe (no joke) I have lost 5 pounds already. It is nice to eat Kosher! I am resisting with success, the temptation of buying sweets, though I bought my team a gift... a huge box of Belgium chocolate, made fresh!

Star of David flags hang proudly every where! It is a beautiful sight! Tel Aviv is considered the place to play and Jerusalem the place to pray. Regardless, I am pumped to be in both! Our days truly have been long. We get up at 6:30 and don't go to bed until 11:00. We go non-stop. Lovin it! It is so nice not to be sitting behind my desk! I do love my job, and I am missing my peeps there! Especially my little Chica... Victoria. She is DA BOMB!

Today, I got sunburned. Yep... no surprise there to those who know (Sally).. tehee!

This was a GREAT day! We went to an outdoor concert that overlooked Jerusalem. It was a Christian concert! Unbelievable story on how they got let in the city to exalt the name of Yeshua! Oh yeah... you really can't say...J... It is definitely Yeshua! I am learning some of the Hebrew language. It is a beautiful thing!! We have gone to several services, and they would put up the words in "english" form. AWE!

I was taught how to distinguish between Muslim and Believer. The differences are actually quite significant once you understand. I am grateful for my mentor, Mrs. Gregg, for pouring into me a love for this land! It has certainly made the biggest differnce!

And... Naturally... I am live entertainment!!! However, the peeps are quite funny themselves. Did I tell you I REALLY LIKE MY TEAM!

These are TONS of graves. They are on a mountain top in Jerusalem. It is their belief that "when the dead rise first in Christ" that these will be the closest to the Lord when the trumpet sounds. It was fascinating! I was blown away how the Scriptures have come alive when you are actually there! Just amazing!

More to come...

I love and miss you all!

EUROPE!

Fri, 6 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

What A Trip....
I have absolutely no clue as to what time it is as I write this. I feel like I am delirious from sleep deprivation. In 28 hours, I have slept about 3 while on the plain to Europe. That's okay though. I have plenty of energy, as you well know.

My trip, so far, has been great. I was absolutely fascinated with New York. That was where my first layover was. I had to retrieve my luggage from the Languardi (sp?) airport, where I landed. Upon doing this, I then had to take a bus 20 miles to the JFK airport. I was a little nervous at first (also a bit frustrated b/c it was very expensive to do so), but then the Lord gave me peace when I realized that if I can travel around the world by myself, I can surely take a bus from Queens New York down the road... HA! So, I did. Boy oh boy what a city!

After hours of being on the plane, we finally landed in Brussels, Belgium, Europe. I met with my friends Steve and Deane, who are missionaries there. They have been in and out of Brussels for 17 years and have had and raised their kids there. It is home. I know them through my job at the KY District AG and have met them a few times in the states. Yes, it really is a small world!

We drove to their home across town to pick up some Chi-Alpha friends that were visiting them as well. They, too, are from KY. On the way there, I was awed at the sights. The buildings, the structures, the scenery altogether. It was so beautiful. I just started taking pictures. I wanted to capture every moment.

We drove to the most populated area and parked. People were everywhere. We stopped and ate at a deli. Ummm umm umm good! I wanted to try the cultural foods. I got their club on baguette, Belgium fries, Belgium waffle (slurp slurp slurp), FRESH Belgium chocolate (:-)... and a souvenir to mark my territory.

We went down town to the square - BREATHTAKING! Look at these pictures. I will do my best to explain what they are... I was very tired though and did not retain a lot of the history.

This is a palace downtown...

The Pisser: Tall tale of this one! It is, however, a MAIN attraction. Supposedly, a prince of some sort got lost as a young child, and when people were sent to search for him, they were told to remember the exact picture of how he was found.... just in case he was found dead. Yep! You guessed it; this is how he was found... urinating.

The Square: This is the Kings Palace (but there is no king...) is where Steve and Deane are pictured...

I HAVE MADE IT TO ISRAEL! I traveled literally 38 hours before I laid my down to sleep. It was long and exhausting, but worth every minute!!!! I will have pictures and a blog soon... I promise!

The land is amazing! I love my team of peeps too! There is an amazing, Holy Spirit, moment on that one... can't wait to tell you!

The Count Down! Are you In?

Sat, 24 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Hello Friends and Family!

I am getting so excited. I can't believe after 6 months of waiting, it is here! In just days, I will be leaving for THE Beautiful Land! AND, I will be there on my Birthday! HA!

12 of us are flying over. Though I don't know any of my peeps yet, I can't wait to meet them. Good thing I'm outgoing...

It is not a casual trip though. We will be getting started at 6 and lights out at 10. That is 16 hour days! It is going to be tiring yet exciting. We will often be asking the L_RD about what He would have us to do, listening to His voice and obeying and trusting in His guidance. We do have scheduled events, but due to sensitivity, I can not post what it is.

A lot is going on over there right now. I NEED ALL OF YOU! Please write my name down and put it on your fridge. Please gather with your family and your friends to lift us up to Big Daddy!

I am expecting great things. I have a strong trust; therefore, I am asking BIG! But, here is how you can cover us:

Protection
Travel (36 hrs there and 30 back, layovers)
Favor
Unity
Rest
Fun
More... Be Led!

As you post your comments, please just let me know (and DO let me know) you are covering me... unless you want to sing me a birthday song! Heehee...

I will be posting some while there, so keep a look out.

I love you all! I could not do this without you! Thank you so much!

One last thing: Woooooooo Hooooooooooooo!!!

VERY IMPORTANT!

Fri, 11 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

You really need to watch this as soon as possible, because it could be removed. It's been sent to me a couple of times, and I determined it most certainly is something that EVERYONE should be aware of it. It's present day. It's relevant. It's where our people are living, daily. It's one of the most honored television hosts in history. It's Oprah. In 60 seconds you can view a most enlightening glimpse of what we should be guarding people against: humanistic at it's core and a denial of Jesus Christ as THE Way, THE Truth, and THE Life. Yet, millions follow her every word and are awed at her sense of spirituality. May God bless America.

Let me tell you, if you are not a Christian, and you subscribe to my blogs, I STAND FOR JESUS, with NO excuses!

http://youtube.com/watch?v=JW4LLwkgmqA

http://youtube.com/watch?v=pwGLNbiw1gk&feature=related

COME ON PEOPLE! STAND UP FOR JESUS!!!

If we as Christians do not do something about this, then we are in more trouble than anyone could even imagine.

Truly Amazing Grace!

Fri, 14 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Many of you will remember the sad sad story of my friends, Brenda and Kt, losing their first baby. The baby girl was first diagnosed with Turner's Syndrome then other complications as well. It was a traumatic scene when Brenda went into labor months early and the baby was born gone. They were, however, able to hold the baby in their arms before the doctors took her away. They named her "Grace" according to 2 Cor 9:12. They appropriately had a funeral and laid their baby to rest in God's arms.

Just months later, Brenda got pregnant again. Joy filled their hearts as they pondered the future with the gift that God had given them again.

When they went in for an 8 week ultrasound, the baby only measured 6 weeks. So, the doctors wanted to check again in 1 week for the size. The next week, when they repeated the ultrasound, the baby was still only 6 weeks in size. They checked hormone levels. It was confirmed, the baby stopped growing at 6 weeks. At 10 weeks, Brenda had to have a D & C. They named the baby "Michael" and gave him to God too, still believing and trusting in God, while desperately clinging to 2 Corinthians "My grace is sufficient."

I can't imagine what Brenda and Kt have been through over the last year, but I am blessed beyond comprehension at their unshakeable faith. God's grace truly is sufficient.

But wait God is a good God! Let me share with you an email that I just got from Brenda:

"It is with overjoyed (and much relieved) hearts that we announce the third baby Bass in the making! For the first time ever, we had a NORMAL ultrasound yesterday. Everything looks fine and the baby is healthy! The due date is Oct. 21. I feel fine (occasional nausea...but was totally happy with that, because that must be a good sign). We are so blessed and happy that God has once again given us the chance to be parents. We need your prayers; it will be a long 7 months. We love you and will keep you all posted!"

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE Pray for Brenda and Kt!

Comment here to let Brenda know that you are praying.

Winter...KY Style

Sat, 8 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

OK.... This is ridiculous but BEAUTIFUL!!!

I literally played outside for an hour. I was like a 10 year old trapped in a 38 year old body. The sad part is... I couldn't get anyone to play with me!! :-(

I know I'm short, but this really is deep! And it is STILL snowing!!

Yep, Snow Angels :-)

Side view with 10 feet snow drifts

My car really is red. HA! Get it right.... FRONT VIEW:

SIDE VIEW...

My backyard. This is the road (yeah right) that I will have to take to go ANYWHERE!

The Lake is GORGEOUS!

AND last but certainly not least.... a feeble attempt at a SNOWMAN

My very first ever snowman!!! Sorry no hat, eyes, nose, or pipe (I gave that up years ago, haha)

Well you see it! It is COLD, WET, and SNOWING like crazy in Kentucky. They say it is the worse storm in this area in over 10 years. GO FIGURE!

and... IT'S STILL SNOWING!

SOMEBODY... PRAY ME HOME!

My New Siblings

Sat, 8 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Last Wednesday, March 5th, my mom was granted full custody of two VERY PRECIOUS little ones. She has had Tristan for more than two years in foster care, and then got his little sissy straight from the hospital a little over a year ago. It is a long, sad story as to why my mom has these angels and not their parents, but God is in control here. We accept His will in all things.

After many procedures and a long process, they are officially OURS! I can't wait to move back to Florida and be a part of their lives on a regular basis. Meanwhile, I will pray consistantly for them, covering them in the blood of Jesus, and I ask that you do too.

So... without further ado, meet my 3 yr old brother, Tristan, and my 1 yr old sister, Shelby (taken March 1st):

Now that you have fallen in love like I have, PLEASE PRAY FOR ALL OF THEM:

Mom, Tristan, & Shelby

Ministry Happens When You're Called!

Fri, 15 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Greetings Everyone!

Please pray for me as I embark on some new opportunities. As you will see, I have a busy week ahead.

Sunday (17th) morning, I will be preaching at a women's prison in Lexington. There supposed to be about 80 women there.

Tuesday (19) I will be speaking at Kentucky Teen Challenge (rehabilitation center).

Wednesday (20) youth group

Friday (22), I will be guest speaker at Kentucky's Women's Winter Wake-Up Conference.

Friday-Sunday (Feb 29- March 2) Fly to Floridafor Breakthrough!

God is also opening doors in the public schools. I have two schools that I will be giving my testimony at. One was supposed to have been last Wed (13th), but b/c of the ICE/SNOW STORMS, that school was closed. We are rescheduling asap! The other one is on March 19th. The schools are Shelby County High School and North Oldham Middle School. Please pray to the Lord of the harvest for the harvest!!!

SATURDAYmarks the one year anniversary of Jerry's (Christopher's dad) death. I will be spending the day with Christopher. We are going to our favorite place to eat... Red Lobster and just hang at home. Please pray for Christopher!

Please pray for:

Hear the voice of God clearly in what to speak and preach on

No distractions in order to study

Anointing

Holy Spirit (more, more, and more)

Safety as I travel

Lives to be changed (including mine)

GOD IS GLORIDIED

I really thank all of you for being such a huge part of my life, particularly with prayer. I could not or would not be able to walk through these doors if were not for ALLof you! I do love you so very much!

I pray for you often and thank God for you daily!

In Christ,

Jennifer

I Love Ministry; I Love Florida!

Tue, 5 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

I had an AMAZING time in Florida this past weekend! Here are just a few pics. I was able to spend some special (yet short) time with a lot of my friends. I was able to spend more time doing ministry while there.

I love to watch other's lives transformed into the image of our loving Father. That is what ministry is all about Transformation... That is what First Assembly of God is all about!

I long for the day that I can move back to Florida. I don't know when that will be, but hopefully it will happen.

Until then, I will visit "HOME" as much as possible!

Blessings Everybody!

One Amazing Family!

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

With permission, it is with great pleasure to introduce you to an amazing family! This is the Lapp family. They have been hit with a reality that is so common, too common too close to home.

Pictured from left to right are Stephanie (cousin), Victoria (mom), Shannon (sister), and little Nate (Shannon's son). This is the family of World Racer, Sarah Lapp, whose story will bring tears and laughter to your heart. Please click here to read it.

I write to you about them today to ask you for diligent prayer! Victoria has been diagnosed with severe cancer, with NO warning. However, they enjoy rebuking the lies of Satan, and proclaiming the healing of God Almighty, who shines very brightly in their lives.

I was first informed of this by Seth Barnes from Adventures In Missions. I remembered the scene all too well: The World Race, getting rushed home (Sarah this time), AIM doing all they could to ensure comfort for the family, even the hospital and the city were the same.

This precious family lives literally 3.56 miles from where I work. I did not hesitate to volunteer (give back) to be the one to stand in the gap for this family.

Today, I went over to their house. Before I knew it, an hour and a half had gone by. We talked, we laughed, we prayed. It was as if we had been friends forever!

They believe every word of the Bible and welcomed the anointing with oil, lying on of hands, and prayer of faith for healing.

To keep a long story short, this family desperately needs your prayers and your faith. Please also pray for Sarah, as she is headed home from the World Race with the same questions I had, one being, "Did I miss the mark?" To which I say, "Of course not Sweetie. God has a great plan!"

Friends, Friends, Good for you heart!

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Just thinking about the friends that the Lord has blessed me with!

WOW! I love being different!

That means, with all the friends I have today, the world really is crazy.

You are precious to me.

Thank you all for your prayers. They are felt.

I LOVE YOU.

As for some... I can't wait to see you in G'ville on the 31st at MOE'S BABY!

Yikes!

Fri, 4 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

WOW! Am I ever backed up and busy at work, and to top it all off, MY CAR BROKE DOWN AGAIN and I'M SICK!

Work is crazy busy with renewals (over 400) meaning LOTS of paperwork!

I had to get a ride to work today... no car...I have a lock in at church tonight... no car... I have church on Sunday... no car... I have to go out of town on Monday for work.... no car...

The shops (I called many) are all going to be from 300 to 700 dollars to get my car fixed. grrrr... scream!

I really need prayer. I feel bombarded!

Simply Christmas

Tue, 25 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

SIMPLY JESUS!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

A Christmas Blessing

Mon, 24 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

I would call this a Christmas miracle, but it is how the body of Christ should be. It is indeed a wonderful Christmas blessing!

I here others speak in negativity of the American church. I love the church! I love the body of Christ! If we would stop downing it and speak positively of Christ's bride, maybe, just maybe

My son and I are leaving tomorrow (Christmas day) to visit my sister Lisa. We will also be watching her kids while she and her husband go away for a few days. They have been married for 20 years and have 3 kids it's been a long while since they have been able to do this. I can't wait to do this for her!!!

Today, I took my car in to get an oil change before taking off to Alabama. After about an hour, they came and told me that my car would not start! WHAT?!?! What do you mean it won't start? It has never given me a problem! You're out of your mind. This can't be happening.

Long story short, the place was closing at noon, and it was now 11:30. My car is currently still there. They do not know what happened or how to fix it. Hmmm

I called my friend Debbie from work, and her husband, my pastor, answered the phone. I told him what was going on. After a couple of phone calls back and forth, Pastor Scott gave me his car to take to Alabama. YES! My pastor gave me his car. What a blessing! I was totally blown away!!! It's a pretty sweet ride too! I'm not gonna lie. I totally prayed over this one!

Hello everybody! It is Christmas Eve in the middle of the day God totally had to come through on this one.

Here's the provision of God. Pastor Scott just changed the oil in his car yesterday. He said he even questioned why b/c it wasn't necessary to do, but he did it anyway. Now we know why. HA!

THANK YOU PASTOR SCOTT!

I rejoice in my trials. It gives me another chance to boast on the American church, which I love sooo much! Please never lose heart and always keep a positive attitude. God will always come through. He is faithful!

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYBODY!

What's Wrong With This Picture?

Sat, 15 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

OK! I am totally a Florida girl! For crying out loud, it is not even winter yet!

This is the FROZEN tree outside of my balcany. It is actually quite beautiful.

Notice the slushy footprints to the left. It is a mixture of snow, sleet, and rain... lovely!

And last but not least... my car... covered in ice and snow!!! Which is why I am not going anywhere today. It appears to be a great day for a Sabbath!

My son came over to stay the night last night. I let him open a present... a down comforter with matching pillows. We are totally wrapped in our comfy's and pj's, watching Amazing Grace. aaahhhhh...

It's a choclate chip pancakes, bacon... pizza delivery day kinda day too!